Music teacher answers Whanganui Male Choir’s call after dwindling membership

Whanganui Male Choir with Caleb Arthur (former musical director) and Amelia McKenna (former accompanist) in front.

The Whanganui Male Choir has found a new director and pianist after dwindling membership put the 128-year-old choir at risk.

After a public plea for help, Whanganui music teacher Jamie Henare was convinced to join as musical director.

“I was approached, and I said ‘no’, because I was changing jobs and I thought it would’ve been a bit much at the time,” he said.

“Then I saw that post up about how they were unsure if they’d be able to go ahead or not, and I thought I might be able to fit it in this time.”

Music teacher Jamie Henare has joined the Whanganui Male Choir as music director.

Henare held the lead role in a recent Whanganui production of Les Misérables.

He holds a postgraduate diploma from the NZ School of Music and was a member of the Orpheus Choir of Wellington.

With an increase in members, the Whanganui choir decided at its recent annual meeting to continue through its 128th year.

It rehearsed under Henare for the first time last month.

“It was pretty good, so I plan on being there long-term,” he said.

“I’ve mainly taught at unisex schools, so I haven’t got to do much stuff with just a male voice.”

Former directors include Dick Tizard, Barry Samuels, Jim Eyers and Judy Barrett.

Another newcomer is Philomena Gaines who has joined the choir as piano accompanist.

Having played since she was 5, Gaines is currently completing grade eight in piano, the last step before pursuing advanced professional diplomas.

Philomena Gaines has joined the Whanganui Male Choir as piano accompanist.

Gaines has experience as a church organist and credits her interest in choral music to two years with the Whanganui-based Schola Sacra choir.

President Tony Ross said they were very happy to have found two new members.

Down to 11 members last year, the choir temporarily joined with the Whanganui Community Choir.

But now, numbers have nearly doubled.

“I think we had four first tenors and five second tenors. So we have got a better balance now,” Ross said.

“We wouldn’t want to see it too much lower, but a choir of 30 would be better,” he said.

A typical choir performance would see 120 to 150 audience members, Ross said.

Henare said the choir had a lot of history.

“It’s a focused group of men who want to sing substantial music, with no experience or sheet music reading necessary. It’s just about getting together and singing for the love of singing.”

Those interested in trying out the choir, subscribing or offering sponsorships are invited to contact Tony Ross at 0276115533 or Denis McGowan at 0272522246.

Noam Mānuka Lazarus (Ngāti Whatua o Kaipara) is a multimedia journalist at the Whanganui Chronicle.